#surprise London gig

[mitamicah]

2024 was in many ways one big fever dream which I've spend four days now trying to make enough sense of to make this video

Split into three categories:

Part 1: Transition related milestones (HRT, top surgery news)

Part 2: Personal highlights (tattoos, concerts, etc.)

Part 3: Original song decidated to people at the Kääryleet Summer Camp

Context for part 2 clips under the line

10.17: January 1, starting of the year dyeing my hair black at midnight

10.24: January 9, after a long winter hating my body more than usual I got this tattoo inspired by Käärijä's song Paidaton Riehuja to remind myself that how my body looks doesn't matter and I should instead love it for what it can give me instead of its appearance

10.28: March 1, After a month and a half I finally received the first bit of non-sticker merch I ever made, keychains of Joker Out and Bojere. I would end up selling them to fans and gifting them to Joker Out at the See You Soon tour.

10.32: March 2, At my first time in Helsinki Finland I went to see Käärijä's mural at Tikkurilla, Vantaa

10.36: March 2, Having booked myself into the Käbnb I of course had to try on the bolero

11.00: March 3, Waking up after sleeping one night at the Käbnb (one of the best sleeps of the year)

11.08: March 2, Being present at the premiere of Sta Bih Ja (my top song of Spotify Wrapped) at Kulttuuritalo day 1

11.24: March 2, Being present at the premiere of Bluza (my current fave JO song) at Kulttuuritalo day 1

11.42: March 2, Hojan cameo at Kulttuuritalo day 1

12.07: March 3, Being present at the premiere of Schlager at Kulttuuritalo day 2

13.34: March 15, Bojan fulfilling the first bit of the 'are you' saga by writing me the phrase during soundcheck of the Malmö gig

12.56: March 15, Post-Malmö gig rambles about meeting Bojan, Jan and Nace

13.48: November 15, Vogue Slovenia sharing picture of me in the crowd at Malmö (on the release day of Souvenir Pop none the less!!)

13.50: April 22, Clips from Blind Channel gig at Copenhagen, which happened to be on my 29th birthday. Got a vip posterbag, guitar pick from Rock Band from Hell and a band shirt of Cold Culture all for free. The picture of me is from when Blind Channel sang happy birthday for me from stage :'3

14.06: May 4 - Clips from Käärijä's Böle gigs, speficially of Erika joining the evening show and the Cha Cha Cha finale

14.40: May 4-5 - Paidaton Riehuja playing as the last song at the Böle afterparty. Here would be the place I took my shirt of for the first time in public, and when I realised I cried 4-5 times and got a tattoo to memorize it the day after.

15.02: May 18 - Pictures of my Käärijä cosplay (irl and drawn by fellow queer person) at the local pride, I went to perform CCC for a few thousand people.

15.06: June 1 - Clips of my new fave danish band Cold Culture performing at a free concert in Copenhagen. Me and the frontman fanboyed over each other and I passed for what I believed for the first time in a crowd full of strangers.

15.22: July 3 - Beginning of the Kääryleet Summer Camp (hereafter KSC) with Käärijä at Ravintola Backas, Vantaa - including pictures around the summer camp as well

15.38: July 5 - Fantastista at Allas Sea pool, at this gig I was able with the help of my friends to get Jere's handwriting for the 'are you' tattoo

15.50: July 7 - Premiere of Trafik! with Joost at Käärijä's gig at Ruisrock + having pictures of me and the KSC flag be featured on Ruissi's IG and in the People's Champion booklet

16.21: July 7- Joker Out at Ruisrock (pretty much just happy I survived this feeling faint due to low blood sugar)

16.56: September 20 - Celebrating Bojere's second tavastia reunion at my first ever tattoo convention getting this flashtattoo of 'the lovers' tarotcard to go with my Are You tattoo (more later)

17.03: October 8 - Big compilation of clips from Käärijä's big gift to me this year: the chance to join him on stage, perform Mic Mac, show the finished 'are you' tattoo both before and during the show and ending with Häärijä hugging me over the barricade and gifting me a signed poster

18.37: October 18 - seeing Käärijä (and Hä although not shown in this video) wear @clovermoonspell's bolero at Heaven 1, London

18.54: November 1 - Celebrating the premiere of People's Champion getting a tattoo inspired by the tarotcard I got from @tuherrus at the KSC (and the mere fact I've since then seen the number 8 everywhere -the card, strength, was number 8) + November 25 - getting my fursona tattooed by a local tattoo artist I adore

18.59: December 2 - Visiting Ljubjana for the first time (and first time abroad where I'm "just" a tourist") here looking over the city from the tower of Ljubjana Castle

19.06: December 3 - My reaction seeing Jure and Bojan wearing my scribbler out shirts I'd just given them at soundcheck, Tvornica Kulture Zagreb

19.42: December 3-4 - Having gotten my own shirt stamped after Zagreb, Bojan got to see the 'are you' tattoo and he, Nace and one more member 'are you'd me - met Kiki later and got to fanboy over Hamburg

19.51: December 16 - Having survived my first queuing in Poland here is a clip of Käärijä soaking me during ICIP at Hype Park, Kraków.

20.01: BOJERE TWINNING MOMENT! Each of them gets eye contact with me while filming and holding their hand to their heart when I freak out (Käärijä = December 17, Warsaw, Bojan = March 15, Malmö)

20.16: December 17-8 - Ending up the year with a hug from Jere after the gig at Progresja, Warsaw

[lucinfernos]

CONTENT CREATOR ARCANE AU INTRODUCTIONS ⭐

finally put together this handy dandy info sheet for your ease of access!

Jayce a.k.a. ManOfProgress (benevolently referred to as MOP by his fans) — 31 years old, he/him, bisexual trans man, Mexican-Brazilian — Started content creation in 2020 as a hobby to battle the pandemic boredom but blew up and decided to make it his full-time gig — Streams games and goofballery on Twitch [623k followers] and posts & streams more personal and unrelated content on YouTube [102k subscribers] — Found Viktor’s channel ~6 months before they started talking and feels very comforted by his voice; sleeps to his videos every night and puts one on whenever he’s anxious or angry — Got into a bad car accident as a child that was fatal to his father and left him with chronic pain on his left leg; now wears a knee brace and a calf compress periodically

Viktor a.k.a. TheMachineHerald — 32 years old, he/him, gay trans man, Czech-Polish — Was unable to leave the house during the peak of the pandemic and found joy and inspiration from Jayce’s content, and chose to start dabbling in content creation in 2022 — Creates very technically advanced and meticulously crafted ASMR videos; usually fully focuses on the mechanical sounds and tech aesthetic but lately has been brancing out more [12,3k subscribers before he gets in kahoots with Jayce] — Started showing his face only around the time when Jayce started watching him and is a bit irritated over the boost in popularity it granted him — Has many health problems, including scoliosis and rheumatoid arthritis (which has caused lung scarring and severe cartilage damage to his right leg and spine from when he was younger and could not access the necessary care to get the inflammation in control)

Mel a.k.a. Melicious (to this day her fans argue whether this is a reference to delicious or malicious) — 33 years old, she/her, bisexual; Jayce’s ex-girlfriend, African-American w/ Algerian roots — Was with Jayce during her time in Piltover but they made the mutual decision to part ways when she was accepted into an art school in London; are still close friends — Made very high-quality weekly diary-style vlogs, often related to art [837k subscribers]. Went on a semi-hiatus after moving but is active on other social medias like Instagram [1,4 million followers]

Jinx a.k.a. GETJINXED — 19 years old, she/they, agender aroace; in a queerplatonic relationship with Ekko, American — Gained popularity on TikTok and later on Twitch when people realized she’s the sister Vi is always complaining about; has no niche and does literally anything she wants to do that day, which usually has to do with either art or engineering [166k followers on Twitch, 850k on TikTok] — Working on an independent music career on the side with their debut single Get Jinxed going viral on TikTok — Lost her finger ON STREAM when working on an art installation, the clip has millions of views

Ekko a.k.a. The_Boy_Savior — 20 years old, he/any, probably nonbinary but he has a job so he doesn’t care abt that rn, bi & asexual; in a queerplatonic relationship with Jinx, African-American — Creates well-researched and thought-provoking video essays about worldwide issues, especially dedicated to the health of the planet and its people [317k subscribers] — Surprised everyone by appearing in one of Jinx’s tiktoks because nobody knew they knew each other let alone that they were in a QPR — Frequently holds fundraisers and has done a lot of good for his community

Caitlyn a.k.a. KillshotKiramman — 23 years old, she/her, lesbian; Vi’s girlfriend and Jayce’s best friend, Chinese-British — Makes videos about weapons (mostly guns and shooting) [176k subscribers] and plays games on her Twitch [29k followers] — Moderates Jayce and Vi’s streams, and completely destroys both of them at FPS games — Had a gun misfiring accident which left her blind in her left eye

Violet a.k.a. vistandsforvideogames — 24 years old, any pronouns, gender-apathetic (call her whatever you like) lesbian; Caitlyn’s partner, American — Gamer on Twitch, but also shares about her side job as a boxer [212k followers] — Sometimes mods for Jayce but mainly just shows up to kick his ass in Mortal Kombat and exude chaotic energy

[terastalungrad]

I'm reading Life in Code by Ellen Ullman, writings on tech and philosophy.

I love the chapter "Is Sadie the Cat a Trick?", where Ullman talks of the 19 years she had with her cat Sadie, and - while reflecting on Artificially Intelligence - wonders whether the relationship between them was an illusion.

Was Sadie merely behaving according to her "programming"? Was Ullman merely imagining sentience?

Ullman considers various aspects of her relationship with Sadie. First, companionship. Second, familiarity:

[H]er coming to meet me at the door (even when her bowl was full, so it was not in the hope of getting dinner). There was mutual recognition of ritual: I knew the time of day when she moved to her favourite chair to take the sun, so I anticipated it and raised the shade. She knew I wrote in the morning, and, before I got to the desk, she was lying on her pillow by the heater, which had not yet been turned on. If it were just warmth she'd wanted, she could have stayed in bed with Elliot, who was living with me by then. Instead, she decided she would wait for me by a cold heater.

I love this paragraph very much. This reflection on the familiar behaviour of a pet, ostensibly to work out if there's a difference between a pet and sufficiently advanced AI. But also, it seems to me that this is an investigation into love itself.

Did Ullman's cat love her? Do any of our pets love us?

Instinctively, we think "yes". Ullman has applied a programmer's mind - and a philosopher's mind - to the question:

Companionship, familiarity, expectation, mutual recognition, bodily comfort: if this is not a definition of love between aging creatures, I don't know what is.

I'm away from home for a few days, with gigs in London and Birmingham. I always miss my wife when I'm away, and this essay hasn't helped at all thank you.

It makes me think of our own rituals. Sometimes - not often - I'm awake before Elanor. I know what time her alarm will go off, so I join her in bed a minute before, so she wakes up gently to a cuddle before the cold brutality of the alarm. When I'm working in the study, Elanor will sometimes open the door a crack, and wait to be invited in.

This is the difference between love and programming. Last time I was away, Elanor defrosted the freezer - an accomplishment of immense bravery and determination. She didn't tell me this, but when I came home she challenged me to work out what chore she'd done while I was away - knowing that, letting me discover this action by opening the freezer would be the best possible way for me to find out she'd done this.

How did Elanor know this? We've been together 20 years this month. Perhaps she reflected on the fact that I'm delighted by surprise, and by playfulness. Maybe she thought about the way I like stories - and that investigating the house, searching for new jobs completed, would give me the thrill of an adventure. It's possible she considered my love of novelty and shared experiences - and came up with this way of presenting her accomplishment according to these principles; these techniques for controlling the reveal.

All of this *could* be true. That Elanor consciously processed, analysed the data. Her understanding of me. Maybe, perhaps, possibly.

But I think she just knew.

Familiarity. Expectation. Recognition. Love between aging creatures!

People are so excited that generative AI can produce ugly pictures and bland copy. But I don't think it would curl up in front of a cold heater in an empty study.

Because any relationship with a program is an illusion. It isn't love. Because love isn't defrosting the freezer. Love is defrosting the freezer while your partner's away, anticipating their response, looking forward to their joy.

[fireya-x]

— ❥ [ link to my AO3 ]

— ❥ [ requests / asks ] (for requests - john price related preferably - or to say hi! <3)

— ❥ [ my art ]

🌙 nsfw / contains smut

✨ sfw / no smut

— ❥ [ chamomile ]🌙 [8.4k words]

after a painful divorce and unexpected reunion, you and john rediscover a love that never truly faded.

— ❥ [ bite marks ]🌙 [4.4k words]

you show john exactly who he belongs to when other women won't take a hint.

— ❥ [ hold me close and tell me that it's real ]🌙 [4.7k words]

a message to a wrong number turns out to be just perfectly right.

— ❥ [ skin on skin ]🌙 [1.4k words]

a surprise waits for john when he returns home earlier than you expected…

— ❥ [ you could be the death of me ]🌙 [3k words]

disobedience has consequences, especially when it comes to john price.

— ❥ [ coming home ]🌙 [3,5k words]

three weeks apart is three weeks too long for john.

— ❥ [ caught in the undertow ]🌙 [7k words]

john made the right call that day. it could have cost you your life, but it saved a dozen others - innocent men, women and children. he made the right decision. …did he?

— ❥ [ luna sanguinis ] 🌙 [4/8 chapters, 19k words/??]

john price is dragged to a fancy halloween party, where he finds himself captivated by the stunning and mysterious hostess, victoria di corvo. (vampire!AU / kinktober)

— ❥ [ floral misdelivery ] ✨ [2k words]

overwhelmed by the task of gifting his mother flowers, john makes a mistake that turns into a chance to show you, his assistant, what you really mean to him.

— ❥ [ mirror image ] 🌙 [3k words]

john comes home from a training mission with new recruits and desperately needs to feel to be back in control over something (hint: it’s you).

— ❥ [ family dinner ]🌙 [9k words]

john asks you to pretend to be his girlfriend for one night, to save himself from annoying questions from his family. turns out, you're actually who he really wants.

— ❥ [ keep me breathing ]✨ [22 chapters || 73k words]

one day, captain john price brings his team home, a small house in a london suburb, after a mission that changed everything. you didn’t know that you would soon be back in the field again, chasing demons. if only you knew that sometimes, what you believed to be true wasn’t always as it seemed… (alternative ending fic)

— ❥ [ a private lesson ]🌙 [4k words]

your husband, captain john price, insists on teaching you how to shoot at the range. but you soon realize that his instructions involve a lot more than just handling a gun.

— ❥ [ a million miles apart ]🌙 [2k words]

it's the middle of the night, and the phone is ringing. it's john, and something is wrong... but it's a different kind of urgency. (phone sex)

— ❥ [ when lilacs bloom ]🌙 [5k words]

the aftermath of a mission leaves you shaken, and only john's presence can ground you as you face a new part of your life together. (shower sex, pregnancy)

— ❥ [ the fall of crowns ]🌙 [8k words]

as a sniper, you're not exactly known for close-quarters combat. john price wants to test your limits, and you both end up pushing each other beyond the point of no return. (consensual noncon!)

— ❥ [ the wolf and the nightingale ]🌙 [14k words]

witnessing something you shouldn't have, you're thrown into a world of shadows and danger, placing you in captain price's protective custody.

— ❥ [ champagne dreams ]🌙 [9k words]

task force 141 had taken on an unusual mission for a night: they were playing bodyguards for a retired general's daughter. captain john price expected it just to be a quick and well-paid gig - turns out, he and you weren’t seeing each other for the first time, though…

— ❥ [ they say don't open old wounds ]🌙 [3,7k words]

the mask hides more than just a face; it hides a shared past, a love lost, a ghost you thought long buried.

[invisibleicewands]

‘I wanted to be seen as the greatest actor of all time. Then I realised that was nonsense’: Michael Sheen on pride, parenting and paying it forward

He’s the feted star who cracked Hollywood, but it was only when he swapped LA for his home town in Wales that he was able to do his most meaningful work yet

By Simon Hattenstone

Michael Sheen has been fabulous in so many TV dramas and movies, it’s hard to know where to start. But perhaps his most memorable appearance came earlier this year in a TV show that didn’t require him to do any acting at all. The Assembly was a Q&A session in which he took questions from a group of young neurodiverse people. Sheen didn’t have a clue what would be asked, and no subject was off limits. It made for life-affirming telly. The 55-year-old Welsh actor was so natural, warm and encouraging as he answered a series of nosy, surprising and inspired questions. I watched it thinking what a brilliant community worker Sheen would be. And, in a way, that’s what he has become in recent years.

“The Assembly’s had more response than anything else I’ve ever done,” Sheen tells me. “Almost every day someone will come up to me and mention it, particularly people who have children with autism. They say it was just so lovely to see something where the interviewers were empowered. I had a fantastic time.” He replays some of his favourite moments: the young man Leo who took an age to start talking, and then delivered the most beautifully phrased question about the influence of Dylan Thomas on Sheen’s life; the woman who asked what it was like to be married to a woman only five years older than his daughter; and the question that came at the end: “What’s your name, again?” He smiles: “And Harry with the trilby on. Just the nicest man ever.” You came across as an incredibly nice man, too, I say. “Aw well, it’s hard not to be when you’re among all those amazing people, innit.”

Today we meet in London, ostensibly to talk about A Very Royal Scandal, a gripping mini-series about Prince Andrew’s infamous Newsnight interview with Emily Maitlis – the disastrous attempt to defend his honour that sealed his fall from grace. But we don’t get to the show till it’s almost going home time. Sheen’s too busy discussing all the other stuff that matters to him, away from business.

Six years ago, he swapped life in Los Angeles for Port Talbot, the steel town where he grew up. These days he calls himself a not-for-profit actor – a term he happily admits he’s invented. “It means that I try to use as much of the money I earn as I can to go towards developing projects and supporting various things. Having had some experiences of not-for-profit organisations and social enterprises, I realised that’s what I want to do with my business. And my business is me.” He grins. There was a suggestion that he might stop acting in order to do good works, but he says that never made sense; only by getting decent gigs can he earn money to put back into the community.

It has to be said he’s got the air of a not-for-profit actor today – scruffy black top, sloppy black pants, black trainers. With a bird’s-nest beard and a thicket of greying curls, he looks nicely crumpled. But give him a shave and a trim, allow him a flash of that electric smile, and he could still pass as a thirtysomething superstar.

Sheen is best known for transforming into household names – Brian Clough in The Damned United; Chris Tarrant in Quiz; David Frost in Frost/Nixon; a trio of films as Tony Blair (The Deal, The Queen, and The Special Relationship); Kenneth Williams in Fantabulosa. His Prince Andrew is compelling; by turns petulant, pathetic, monstrous and poignant. He has a gift for inhabiting famous people – voice, body, soul, the works. He’s equally adept as a regular character actor – the dapper angel Aziraphale in Good Omens, pale and pinched as spurned suitor William Boldwood in the 2015 film of Far From the Madding Crowd, the tortured father of a daughter with muscular dystrophy in last year’s BBC drama Best Interests. He even plays a winning version of himself alongside David Tennant (and their respective partners Anna Lundberg and Georgia Tennant) in the lockdown hit TV series Staged.

But the work that changed his life was his 2011 epic three-day reimagining of The Passion on the streets of Port Talbot, involving more than 1,000 people from the local community. It was years in the making, and during that time he decided he would leave Los Angeles to come home. Initially, home just meant Britain, probably London. But the longer he spent with his people, the more it became apparent to him that home could only mean one thing – returning to Port Talbot, and helping the disadvantaged town in whatever way he could.

He admits that for many years he didn’t have a clue about the reality of life in Port Talbot. He had always lived in one bubble or another. His parents were hardly flush, but they had decent jobs – his mother was a secretary, his father a personnel manager at British Steel, and both were active in amateur dramatics. Sheen was academically gifted (he considered studying English at Oxford University before winning a place at Rada), a talented footballer (he had trials with Cardiff and Swansea) and an exceptional young actor. Then came the bubble of Rada and London, followed by the bubble of LA.

It was only when he started to work on The Passion that he began to understand his home town. One day he was rehearsing with a group in a community hall when he was approached by a woman. “She told me she was the mother of this boy who’d been in my class at school called Nigel. When I was 11, he fell off a cliff in an accident and died. It was the first time I’d known someone to die. She said, ‘I’ve started up a grief counselling group here. I have a little bit of money from the council because there is no grief counselling in this area.’” She’d had no counselling when Nigel died, nor in the 31 years since. “And all these years later, she’d set up a little grief counselling thing with a bit of money, so that was extraordinary to hear.” Next time he returned he discovered that the group no longer existed because of council cuts.

Every time he went back he discovered something new. He met a group that supported young carers. Sheen doesn’t try to disguise how ignorant he was. “I said, ‘All right, what are young carers?’ And they said, ‘They’re children who are supporting a family member.’ And I’m like, ‘OK, this is a profession, they get paid, right?’ And I was told, ‘No, they don’t get paid and our little organisation gives them a bit of respite – once a week we take them bowling or to the cinema.’ I went bowling with them one night and there were eight-year-old kids looking after their mother and bringing up the younger kids. This one organisation was trying to take these kids bowling one night a week, and then that went. No funding for that, either. That kind of stuff was shocking.”

As a child, SHEEN says he was oblivious to struggle because he was so driven by his own dreams. First, it was football. By his mid-teens it was acting. West Glamorgan Youth Theatre, which he calls “one of the best youth theatres in the world”, was on his doorstep. “The miners’ strike was on when I was 15 in Port Talbot and I wasn’t really aware of it at the time. That’s how blinkered I was, because I was so obsessed by acting at that point.” Acting wasn’t regarded as a lofty fantasy in Port Talbot as it may have been in many working-class communities. After all, the town had produced Richard Burton and Anthony Hopkins.

In his late teens, heading off for Rada, Sheen feared he would be surrounded by giant talents who would dwarf his. When he discovered that wasn’t the case, he suffered delusions of grandeur. “I wanted to be recognised as the greatest actor in the world,” he says bluntly. In the second year, the students did their first public production: Oedipus Rex. “I thought, well obviously I’ll be cast as Oedipus, then we’ll perform Oedipus to the public and when the world sees me for the first time I’ll be carried shoulder-high through the streets of London and hailed as the greatest actor of all time.” I look for an ironic wink or nod, but none is forthcoming.

Sure enough, he was cast in the lead role. “We did our first public production and I thought I was brilliant.” But nothing changed. It didn’t bring him instant acclaim. By the third night, he could barely get through the performance.

Were you a bit of a cock back then, I ask. He shakes his head. “No, I was having a breakdown. I was crying most of the time. I just fell apart. I spoke to the principal of Rada and I said, ‘I can’t continue at drama school, I have to leave.’ And he said just take some time off, which I did, and two or three weeks later I slowly came back and then completely changed the way I acted.”

Until then he believed acting was just about what he did. “I thought you just worked out how to say the lines as cleverly as you could; it had nothing to do with responding to other people or being in the moment. It was showing off, essentially. And there’s a ceiling to where you can get with that. That breakdown I had was because I’d reached the ceiling and didn’t know how to go any further. That’s why I fell apart.”

He gradually put himself and his technique back together. Was he left with the same ambition? “No. The idea of being considered the best actor of all time becomes nonsense.” In 1991, Sheen left Rada early, because he’d been offered a job he couldn’t turn down. He made his professional debut opposite Vanessa Redgrave in a West End production of Martin Sherman’s When She Danced. Theatre was Sheen’s first love, and his rise was meteoric. From the off, he was cast as the lead in the classics (Romeo and Juliet, Peer Gynt, Henry V, The Seagull) and the 20th-century masterpieces (Norman in The Dresser, Salieri and Mozart in Amadeus, Jimmy Porter in Look Back In Anger).

Sheen was doing exceptionally well when he and his then partner Kate Beckinsale moved to LA for her work in the early 2000s. She was four years younger than him, and already a movie star. Their daughter Lily, now an actor, was a toddler. He assumed that his transition to stardom in LA would be as seamless as it had been in Britain. But it wasn’t. His theatrical acclaim counted for nothing. In 2003, he and Beckinsale split up, but he stayed in LA to be close to Lily.

The first few years, he says, were so lonely and dispiriting. “I found myself living in Los Angeles, there to be with my daughter but just seeing her once a week. I had no career there – it was essentially like starting again. I had no friends and spent a lot of time on my own. It was tough. Slowly I realised how it was affecting me.” In what way? “I remember coming out of an audition for Alien vs Predator, to play a tech geek computer guy with five lines and really caring about it, and then thinking: ‘I can be playing fucking Hamlet at home, what am I doing, what’s this all about?’” He says he’d been so lucky – always working, never having to audition, getting the prize jobs. And suddenly in LA he was an outsider; a nobody.

He and Beckinsale are often cited as role models for joint parenting by ex-couples. In 2016, Beckinsale, Lily and Sheen staged a hilarious photo for James Corden’s The Late, Late Show, recreating the moment of giving birth 17 years earlier. Beckinsale reclines on a kitchen table with Lily sitting between her legs, as an alarmed-looking Sheen stands to the side. Have they always got on well since splitting up? “We’ve had our ups and downs, but we’re very important in each other’s lives. It would be really sad if we weren’t – like cutting off a whole part of your life. I’m not saying it doesn’t have its challenges, and I’m sure it’s been harder for her than for me.” Why? “Because … ” He pauses and smiles. “Because I’m more of a twat!” In what way? Another smile. “I’m not going to tell you that, am I?”

Sheen’s break in America came when he was spotted by a casting director who told him he would be perfect for a new project. Ironically, it was to play former British prime minister Tony Blair in a British TV drama called The Deal, directed by British film-maker Stephen Frears and shot in Britain. The Deal led to Frears’s The Queen, about Elizabeth II’s frigid response to the death of Diana, Princess of Wales leading to a crisis for the monarchy. Again he played Blair, this time riding to the rescue of the royals. The movie was nominated for six Oscars (Helen Mirren won best actress) and he never struggled in America again.

The longer he lived in LA, however, the more rooted he felt to Port Talbot. And the further he travelled, around the world or just in Britain, the better he understood how disadvantaged it was. “If you’re in Port Talbot one day and then the next you’re in a little town in Oxfordshire where David Cameron is the MP, it’s fairly obvious there are very different setups there. And that was connected to a political awakening.” He started to read up on Welsh history. In 2017, he returned his OBE because he thought it would be hypocritical to hold on to an honour celebrating empire when he was giving a Raymond Williams lecture on the “tortured history” of the relationship between Wales and the British state.

He began to reassess his past. “I became more aware of the opportunity I’d had in an area where there wasn’t much opportunity. At a certain point you go, Oh, people are having to volunteer to make that youth theatre happen that I’m a product of.” You’d taken it for granted? “Completely. I was happy to think everything I was doing was because of my own talent and I was making my own opportunities, and as I got older I thought maybe that’s not the whole story.”

In 2016, the long-running American TV series Masters of Sex, in which Sheen starred as the pioneering sex researcher William Masters, came to an end. Lily was now 17 and preparing for college. “I suddenly thought, Oh, I can go home now.” And six years ago he finally did – to Baglan, a village adjoining Port Talbot. Since then he has been involved in loads of community projects.

He mentions a few in passing, but he doesn’t tell me he sold his two homes (one in America, the other in Wales) to ensure the 2019 Homeless World Cup went ahead as planned in Cardiff. Nor does he mention that a couple of years ago he started Mab Gwalia (translating to “Son of Wales”), which proudly labels itself a “resistance movement”. On its website, it states: “Mab Gwalia believes that opportunity should not only be available to those who can afford it. The ambition is to build a movement that makes change.” Its projects have supported homeless people, veterans, preschool children on the autism spectrum, kids in care, victims of high-cost credit, and local journalism, which is a particular passion. “In the early 1970s in Port Talbot, there was something like 12 different newspapers. There are none now. None. Communities don’t feel represented, don’t feel their voice is heard and don’t know if the information they’re getting about what’s going on in the community is correct or not. Those are terrifying things, and without local journalism that’s what happens.”

Perhaps surprisingly, he’s even found time for the day job. Earlier this year, he played Nye Bevan in Tim Pryce’s new play about the founding father of the NHS. He also made his directing debut with The Way, a dystopian, and prophetic, three-part TV drama about the closure of the Port Talbot steelworks that results in local riots spreading across the country. How does he feel about the rioting that has scarred the country in recent weeks? “I feel the same way I think most people do. It was awful and terrifying. I worry about how much a hard-right agenda that has been growing for a long time has moved further and further into the mainstream and has clearly got more connected. It’s frightening.” Does he think the new Labour government can deliver the positive change it promises? “Pppfft.”He exhales heavily. “More optimistic than the Conservatives being in power.” Who did he vote for? “That’s my God-given right to remain a secret, isn’t it? It wasn’t the Tories!”

I ask if he’s in favour of Welsh independence. “I don’t know how I feel about it one way or the other, but I would like there to be an open discussion about everything that entails. The problem is when it gets shut down and you don’t get to talk about it.”

Would he ever go into politics? He looks appalled at the idea. “Oh God, no. No! I’d beawful.”Why?“Because I don’t want to say what other people are telling me to say if I don’t agree with it. Look at all those people who voted against the two-child benefit cap and had the whip taken away from them. That’s bollocks. People say I should go into politics because I’m passionate about things and I speak my mind. But then you get into politics and you’re not allowed to do that any more. I’ve got far more of a platform as myself. I can say what I want to say.”

Fair enough. I’ve got another idea. A couple of years ago he gave an inspired motivational speech for the Wales football team before the 2022 men’s World Cup, on the TV show A League of Their Own. Would he take the job as Wales manager if offered it? He looks just as horrified as the idea of a life in politics. “No!” Why not? “Because it’s a completely different profession. You need to know about football. I played football when I was younger, but I wouldn’t have a clue. Wouldn’t. Have. A. Clue. Just because you can make a speech doesn’t mean you’d be any good at that sort of stuff.” He says he was embarrassed about the speech initially, but now feels proud of it. “Schools get in touch and say, ‘We’ve been studying it with the class.’ I put hidden things in. There are rabbit holes you can go down.” He quotes the line, “You sons of Speed” and tells me that’s a reference to the idolised former manager and player Gary Speed who took his life in 2011. You can hear the emotion in his voice.

I’ve been waiting for Sheen to mention the new TV drama about Prince Andrew. Most actors direct you to the project they’re promoting as soon as you sit down with them. Let’s talk about the new show, I  eventually say.

This is already the second drama about the Andrew interview. Did he know that Scoop, which came out earlier this year, was already in the works? “Yes, I knew before I agreed to do this.” Was it a race to see which would get out first? “There was no race, no. We always knew ours would come out after.” What would he say to people who think it’s pointless watching another film on the same subject? “Ours is a three-part story, so it’s able to breathe a lot more. There’s a lot more to it. In our story, Andrew and Emily are the main characters whereas they were very much the supporting ones in the other one.”

Did it change his opinion of Andrew? “No. It showed the dangers of being in a bubble, having talked about being in a bubble myself! The dangers of privilege.” He talks with sensitivity about Andrew’s downfall. “The thing that really struck me was when Andrew came back from the Falklands there was no one more revered, in a way. I didn’t realise his job was to fly helicopters to draw enemy fire away from the ships. I couldn’t believe they would put a royal in that position, so he was genuinely courageous. He was good-looking, a prince, and had everything going for him. Since then everything has just gone down and down and down.” He’s had so little control over his life, Sheen says. Take his relationships. “He was told he couldn’t be with [American actor] Koo Stark any more because of the controversy. He was essentially told he had to divorce Sarah Ferguson because the royal family, particularly Philip allegedly, was concerned that she would bring the family into disrepute.”

Did he end up feeling more empathetic towards him? “No!” he says sharply. Then he softens slightly. “Well, empathy? I felt I understood a bit more – because that’s my job – about what was going on. But he’s incredibly privileged and has exploited that. It seems like he has a lot taken away from him but probably rightfully so.”

A Very Royal Scandal is like The Crown in that it’s great drama but you’re never sure what’s real. Are Andrew’s lines simply made up? “It’s a combination of research and stories out there, and little snippets and invention.” While Emily Maitlis is an executive producer, Andrew most certainly is not. “Well, that’s the real difficulty for our story,” Sheen says. “On the one hand, you’ve got Emily as an exec, so you know everything to do with her is coming from the horse’s mouth. But everything to do with Andrew, not only is it really difficult to get the actual stuff, also we don’t know what he did.” He pauses. “Or didn’t do.” He’s talking about Virginia Giuffre’s allegation that Andrew raped her, which he denied. In the end, Giuffre’s civil case was dropped after an out-of-court settlement was reached on no admission of liability by Prince Andrew, with Giuffre reportedly paid around £12m.

I had assumed Sheen would be a staunch republican, but he doesn’t feel strongly either way. “There are lots of positives about royals, and lots of negatives.” His bugbear is that the heir to the throne gets to be Prince of Wales. “Personally, I would want the title of Prince of Wales to be given back to Wales to decide what to do with it, and I definitely think there’s a lot of wealth that could be used better.”

The biggest change for Sheen since returning to Wales is his family life. In 2019, he revealed that he had a new partner, the Swedish actor Anna Lundberg, that she was 25 years younger than him, and that she was pregnant. They now have two daughters – Lyra who is coming up to five, and two-year-old Mabli. As well as Staged, the couple have also appeared together on Gogglebox. They look so happy, nestling into each other, laughing at the same funnies, tearing up over the same heartbreakers. She also seems naturally funny. Given that two of his former partners (Sarah Silverman and Aisling Bea) are comedians, have all his exes had a good sense of humour? He thinks about it. “Yes. Yeah, you’ve got to have a laugh, haven’t you?” And he’s always got on well with them after splitting up? “Yeah, pretty much.”

When asked about the age difference between Lundberg and him on The Assembly, he acknowledged that they were surprised when they got together. “We were both aware it would be difficult and challenging. Ultimately, we felt it was worth it because of how we felt about each other, and now we have two beautiful children together.” He also said that being an older father worried him at times. “It makes me sad, thinking about the time I won’t have with them.”

Does being a dad of such tiny kids make him feel young or old? “Both,” he says. “My body feels very old. But everything else feels much younger. I’m 55 and it’s knackering running around after little kids. Just physically, it’s very demanding. And I’m at a point in my life where I’m aware of my physical limitations now. But in other ways it’s completely liberating, and I’m able to appreciate it more now.”

Has he learned about fatherhood from the first time round? “Yeah, I think so. I’m around more now. That’s a big part of it. When Lily was young, I was in my early 30s and doing films for the first time, so Kate would stay in Los Angeles with Lily and I would go off and do whatever.” Did Beckinsale resent that? “I don’t know that she resented it. Kate was doing better than me in terms of profile at the time, so it was different. Given that we then split up and I saw Lily even less, I very much regretted being away as much. So this time I wanted to make sure that wasn’t the case. That’s partly why I’ve set up a Welsh production company. I don’t want to work away from them as much.”

Talking of which, he says, what’s the time? “I’ve got to get back to my kids.”

On his way out, I ask what advice he would give his younger self. He says he was asked that recently and gave a glib answer. “I said buy stock in Apple.” What should he have said? He thinks about it, and finally says he’d have no advice for his younger self. He’d rather reverse the question, and think what his younger self would say to him if he tried to advise him.

“I saw an amazing clip of Stephen Colbert saying your life is an accumulation of every bad choice you’ve made and every good choice you’ve made, and the great challenge of life is to say yes to it. To say, ‘I love living, I embrace living.’ And in order to do that you have to embrace all the pain, all the grief, all the sadness, all the fucking mistakes because without that you don’t have all the other stuff.” He’s on a roll now, louder and more passionate by the word. “And I’d hate it if someone came and went, ‘Don’t do this, no do that.’ Then you just sail through your life. It would be death, wouldn’t it? So I’d tell my older self to go fuck himself.”

[whereforarthur]

I Didn't Know Punk Girls Blushed

Request: Can you do a Chrismd imagine where he’s into an edgier girl? Like maybe she has tattoos and piercings and is the complete opposite of him? Idk how i want the story to go so you can have free range lol

Pairing: ChrisMd x Reader

Category: Fluff

Word Count: 3k

*****

Chris sauntered into the dimly lit vinyl record store, his eyes immediately drawn to the wall of albums that seemed to breathe the very essence of London's vibrant music scene. The sweet, nostalgic scent of old records filled the air, a stark contrast to the bustling street outside. He was on a mission to find the perfect gift for Arthur Hill's birthday, something that would make his old pal's face light up like a Christmas tree.

Behind the counter, a girl with a shock of different streaks of colored hair and a smattering of tattoos peeked out from under her beanie. She was the epitome of edgy, with a piercing gaze that could cut through the fog of a London evening. Her name tag read 'y/n', and she looked as if she'd rather be anywhere but here, serving customers in a store that seemed to be a relic of a bygone era.

Chris approached, a smile playing on his lips, "Hi, I'm looking for something special for my mate's birthday. He's into some old school stuff, you know?"

Y/n nodded, her expression unchanged. "What's his taste?"

Chris thought for a moment, "Arthur's a classic rock kind of guy, but with a bit of a twist. Nothing too mainstream."

Y/n's eyes narrowed as she surveyed the rows of records. "I've got just the thing," she murmured, slipping behind the counter and disappearing into the labyrinth of vinyl. The sound of her boots tapping against the wooden floor echoed through the store, and Chris couldn't help but feel a twinge of excitement. There was something about her that was different from the usual girls he encountered at games or in the pubs.

When she reemerged, she held a vintage-looking album with a faded cover. "This is 'The Dark Side of the Moon' by Pink Floyd. It's a classic, but it's got that edgy vibe to it." She placed it on the counter with a gentle thud. "Your mate Arthur might like it if he's into something with a bit of depth."

Chris's smile widened. "Perfect! I think he'll love it." He watched as she pulled out a dusty record sleeve and slid the album into it with a practiced ease. Her hands were adorned with rings that glinted in the soft light, hinting at a hidden creativity beneath her tough exterior.

As she worked, y/n spoke up again, "What's your name?"

"Chris," he replied, watching her closely. "ChrisMD."

Y/n looked up, a flicker of recognition crossing her face. "Ah, the football YouTuber," she said, her tone flat.

Chris's cheeks flushed slightly. "Yeah, that's me," he said, trying to keep the conversation going. "What's yours?"

Y/n rolled her eyes and tapped her name tag. "It's right there."

Chris felt a twinge of embarrassment and leaned in closer. "Oh, right," he chuckled. "So, y/n, do you work here often?"

Her eyes met his, and for a brief moment, he saw a spark of something—amusement, perhaps? "It's not the worst gig," she replied, sliding the record into a paper bag with the store's logo stamped on it. "Keeps me in vinyl and coffee."

Chris felt his heart flutter in his chest. He wasn't usually one to get flustered around girls, but there was something about y/n that threw him off his game. Her edgy allure was like nothing he'd ever encountered before, and he found himself desperately trying to think of something to say that wouldn't make him sound like the cheesy, over-eager fanboy he feared he was coming across as.

He took a deep breath, willing his cheeks to return to their normal color. "So, y/n, do you like football?" He cringed internally, knowing it was a cliché question, but he was desperate to find some common ground.

To his surprise, she looked up at him with a smirk. "You know, I've been known to kick a ball around," she said, handing him the bag. "But I'm more into the indie scene myself."

Chris raised an eyebrow. "Indie music and football? That's an interesting mix."

Y/n shrugged. "Life's full of surprises."

Their conversation was interrupted by the jingle of the shop door as it opened, letting in a gust of cool air. A customer walked in, and y/n's demeanor shifted, her eyes focusing on the new arrival. "I've got to get back to work," she said, turning away from Chris.

Chris felt a pang of disappointment but nodded, understanding. "No worries. Thanks for the help." He took the bag from her outstretched hand, feeling the warmth she had transferred to it. "Maybe I'll see you around?"

Y/n glanced back at him, a hint of curiosity in her gaze. "Maybe," she said noncommittally before returning her attention to the new customer.

*****

The next few days passed in a blur for Chris. He found himself counting down the hours until he could return to the vinyl record store, hoping to catch another glimpse of y/n. He'd never felt this way about a girl before—his usual type was more of the cheerleader variety, not the edgy, tattooed girl who seemed to see right through him. But there was something about her that drew him in, a challenge that he couldn't resist.

On the third day, he mustered the courage to return. The bell above the door chimed as he stepped inside, and y/n looked up from the stack of records she was organizing. Her expression was unreadable, but there was a flicker in her eyes that made his heart race. She didn't look surprised to see him, just… resigned, as if she'd been expecting his return.

"Back again?" she asked, her voice holding a touch of amusement.

Chris felt his cheeks warm, but he held her gaze. "Yeah, I had to come back. That Pink Floyd album was a hit."

y/n nodded. "Thought it might be." She paused, her hand resting on a nearby record. "So, what are you looking for today?"

Chris shrugged, playing it cool. "Just browsing, really."

y/n raised an eyebrow, her piercings glinting in the soft light. "You're not here to see me, then?"

Chris's heart skipped a beat. "Well, that's not entirely true," he admitted, a grin spreading across his face. "I just wanted to, you know, say thanks and maybe get to know you a bit better."

Her expression remained neutral, but he could see the corners of her mouth twitch. "What's there to know?" she asked, a challenge in her voice.

Chris took a step closer, leaning on the counter. "Everything," he said, his eyes scanning her tattoos, trying to decipher the stories they held. "You're like a walking mystery, and I'm a curious guy."

Y/n's smirk grew into a small smile. "Alright, what do you want to know?"

Chris's mind raced with questions, but he decided to start simple. "How did you get into vinyl?"

Y/n's eyes lit up, a softness coming over her features. "My dad," she said. "He had a collection that was his pride and joy. When he passed, I inherited it all. It's how I keep him with me, you know?"

Chris nodded, feeling a sudden kinship with this girl who had, until now, been a complete enigma to him. "That's really cool," he said, his voice earnest. "I bet he had some amazing records."

Y/n nodded, her eyes misting over slightly. "He did. Some of the best." She paused, then took a deep breath, as if deciding whether or not to let him in further. "He taught me to appreciate the artistry of music, beyond just the sound. The feel of the vinyl, the smell of the sleeves, the way the needle hits the record… It's all part of the experience."

Chris found himself drawn into her world, a place where the music wasn't just background noise but a living, breathing entity that connected people in profound ways. "That's beautiful," he murmured, genuinely moved by her words.

Y/n's eyes searched his, as if looking for signs of mockery or insincerity, but all she found was genuine interest. "You get it," she said, sounding slightly surprised.

Chris nodded, unable to tear his gaze away from her. She looked so pretty when she talked about something she was passionate about, her features softening and her eyes lighting up with an inner fire that made his heart race. He'd never seen a girl transform so completely when discussing something she loved. It was mesmerizing.

"I do," he said softly. "I think that's what's been missing from my music experience. Just playing it on my phone or computer doesn't quite capture that… magic."

Y/n leaned closer, her eyes gleaming with excitement. "Exactly! That's what makes vinyl so special. It's not just about the music; it's about the connection to the artist, the history, the culture."

Chris nodded, feeling more at ease now that they had found common ground. "So, what's your favorite record?"

Y/n's eyes sparkled as she thought. "It's hard to pick just one," she said, scanning the shelves. "But if I had to, it'd be 'The Queen is Dead' by The Smiths."

Chris nodded, scribbling down the name in his phone. "I'll have to give it a listen," he said, his thumb hovering over the screen. "You know, I've got a turntable at home that's been collecting dust. Maybe it's time to put it to good use."

The conversation flowed easily between them, a dance of shared interests and laughter. Chris found himself drawn to her sharp wit and her ability to challenge him. He'd never felt this way about a girl before—like he was discovering something new and exciting, something that made his heart race just a little bit faster.

Finally, as the shop grew quiet and the last rays of sunlight streamed through the dusty windows, casting patterns on the floor, he took a deep breath. "So, y/n," he began, his voice casual but his heart hammering in his chest. "I was wondering if you'd be up for grabbing a coffee or something, maybe show me around some of the local indie music spots?"

Her gaze remained on the records she was sorting, but her hand stilled. "Why me?" she asked, her tone teasing.

Chris felt a thrill run through him. She was playing hard to get, but he could see the curiosity in her eyes. "Because you're the vinyl whisperer," he said with a grin. "And I've got a feeling you know all the hidden gems of London's music scene."

Y/n finally looked up, meeting his gaze. "Flattery won't get you far," she said, but her voice held a playful note. "But okay, I'll bite. How about tomorrow night?"

Chris felt his heart soar. "Really?" He tried to keep the excitement out of his voice, not wanting to scare her off.

Y/n nodded, a knowing smile playing on her lips. "Yeah, really. But don't get your hopes up, football boy. I'm not going to make it easy for you."

Chris chuckled, feeling a mix of excitement and nerves. "Fair enough," he said, trying to play it cool. "Where should we meet?"

Y/n thought for a moment, her eyes scanning the ceiling as if the answer were written there. "How about The Lock Tavern?" she suggested. "It's got a decent selection of records, and the coffee's not too bad either."

Chris nodded eagerly. "Sounds perfect. What time?"

"Eight," she said, her eyes finally meeting his. "Don't be late."

Chris couldn't believe his luck. He'd scored a date with the edgy vinyl goddess of his dreams. "I'll be there," he promised, trying to keep his voice steady.

*****

The following evening, Chris found himself pacing in front of The Lock Tavern, his heart thumping in his chest like a drum. He'd chosen his outfit carefully, aiming for a look that was casual but cool—a nod to her indie style without completely abandoning his own. He glanced at his watch. 7:58. Two minutes to go.

As if on cue, y/n appeared around the corner, her hair a riot of color in the streetlight. She was wearing a vintage band tee and a leather jacket that made her look like she'd just stepped off the set of a music video. She spotted him and raised an eyebrow, a smirk playing on her lips.

Chris took a deep breath and walked over to her. "Hey," he said, trying to sound nonchalant.

"You're early," she said, sounding slightly surprised.

"I didn't want to be late," he replied, his cheeks reddening. "So, shall we go in?"

The Lock Tavern was a cozy, dimly lit pub with a distinctly vintage vibe. The walls were lined with shelves of records, and the air was thick with the scent of beer and good music. The jukebox in the corner played a mix of indie hits and obscure tracks that made Chris feel like he'd stumbled into a secret club.

They found a table in the back, the light from a flickering candle casting shadows on y/n's face. She ordered a black coffee, and Chris went for a pint, hoping it would calm his nerves. They talked about music, her favorite bands, and the history of vinyl. Chris found himself hanging on her every word, her passion for the subject contagious.

As the night wore on, the conversation grew more personal. y/n talked about her life growing up in London, her love for the city's underground music scene, and her dreams of becoming a music journalist. Chris shared stories from his childhood, his love for football, and his journey to becoming a YouTube sensation. Despite their differences, they found common ground in their shared love for the art of storytelling—whether it was through music, videos, or the written word.

Their laughter grew louder with each shared anecdote, and the tension between them grew palpable. When the topic of tattoos came up, y/n leaned in, her eyes locked on his. "Do you have any?"

Chris felt a shiver run down his spine. He'd never considered getting inked before, but the way she said it made him want to show her something only she knew about him. "No, I don't," he admitted. "But I've always been curious."

Her smirk grew. "Well, if you're going to keep hanging around these parts, you might want to get one," she teased. "It's practically a rite of passage."

Chris swallowed, his heart racing. "Maybe I will," he said, his voice barely above a whisper. "But only if you come with me."

Y/n's eyes searched his, and for the first time, he saw something other than amusement or challenge in them—there was a softness, a hint of vulnerability. "Alright," she said, her voice just as soft. "But only if you let me choose the design."

Chris nodded, feeling a strange thrill at the idea of letting her mark him in some way. It was a bold move, but he was ready to step out of his comfort zone for her.

The night grew late, and the pub began to empty out. They lingered over their drinks, the conversation never waning. It was as if they'd known each other for years, despite their stark differences. But as they sat in the warm glow of the candlelight, sharing stories and laughs, it was clear that they had a connection that was more than just skin deep.

When y/n suggested they head out, Chris couldn't hide his disappointment. But as they stepped into the cool London night, the buzz of the city seemed to energize them both. They strolled down the cobblestone streets, the sound of their footsteps echoing in the quiet. The stars above were obscured by the city lights, but the magic of their evening was undiminished.

As they approached the tattoo parlor, y/n's hand slipped into his, and he felt a jolt of excitement. The shop was small, nestled between a vintage clothing store and a tattooed bakery, the neon sign flickering in the dark. The walls were lined with flash art, a kaleidoscope of images that seemed to pulse with the rhythm of the punk rock playing in the background.

The artist, a burly man with a gentle smile, took one look at the nervousness etched on Chris's face and gave him a reassuring pat on the back. "Don't worry, mate," he said, his voice gruff but kind. "You're in good hands."

Y/n whispered the design into the artist's ear, and he nodded, his eyes twinkling with mischief. "You're sure about this?" he asked, turning to Chris.

Chris looked at her, her edgy beauty illuminated by the neon glow. "Yeah," he said, swallowing hard. "I trust her."

The process was surprisingly painless, the needle a gentle hum that seemed to sync with the rhythm of his racing heart. As the artist worked, y/n held his hand, her grip tight and reassuring. When it was over, he looked down at the fresh ink, a simple but meaningful design that represented their shared love of music and their blossoming friendship.

They stepped out into the night, the cool air soothing the sting of the tattoo. y/n turned to him, her eyes shining. "So, what do you think?"

Chris smiled, feeling a sense of belonging he hadn't felt in a long time. "I think it's perfect," he said, squeezing her hand. "Thank you."

Their walk back to the tube station was filled with a newfound ease, the awkwardness of their first meeting a distant memory. As they parted ways, the promise of future adventures hanging in the air, Chris couldn't help but feel like he'd found something special in this edgy, pierced girl who'd turned his world upside down.

In the weeks that followed, they explored the city's hidden music venues, discovered new bands, and shared quiet moments that felt like secrets whispered between friends. With each passing day, their bond grew stronger, the lines between fan and crush blurring into something more substantial.

Chris found himself looking forward to their meetups with an anticipation that was both thrilling and terrifying. He knew that the girl who had once seemed so unattainable was now someone he could see himself with, not just for a fleeting romance but for something real.

The tension grew with each shared smile, each brush of their hands. And when y/n finally leaned in and kissed him under the glow of a streetlamp, the music of the city fading into the background, he knew that he was falling for her—for the girl who had shown him that sometimes, the most beautiful melodies were found in the most unexpected places.

*****

@gvf23

@xxkatxgracexx

[moons-dunes]

Book Worms

For Flufftober- Prompt: Bookshop

Write-tober Masterlist

Moon Knight Masterlist

Summary: You take Steven on a surprise date to a bookshop you just happened to find

Pairing: Steven Grant x fem!reader (can be read as gender neutral)

WC: 917

This work contains: fluffy fluff, Steven and reader jokingly tease eachother a bit, minor and brief PDA but it’s in a cute way

The barista called your name and you quickly grabbed the two drinks you had ordered off the counter, thanking her before exiting the little cafe to go back into the bookshop.

The smell of coffee mixed beautifully with the smell of paper and ink, a smell you wished someone would make a candle out of. However, something was missing.

“Steven?” You called out quietly, slowly walking through the rows of tall shelves and looking down each aisle for your sweet boyfriend.

You had left him in this general area while you got some coffee, leaving him to hold the basket of books the two of you had picked out so far.

“Yeah I’ll wait here, love,” he told you while reading the back of a book he had found intriguing, but you had your doubts. When it came to any shop with books, Steven rarely stayed in one place.

You looked at the signs above the shelves carefully, scoping out each section until you landed on the one you knew Steven would be in.

It was your first time at this particular bookshop, having stumbled across it by accident on your way home one day when you took a different route than usual. All it took was a quick peek in the window for you to know you had to bring Steven there with you.

You both had the day off today, so you wanted to surprise him with an impromptu date. You hadn’t told him where you were taking him, knowing he was always beyond excited to find a hidden gem within the city.

“Okay close your eyes,” you told him with a giggle, holding his hand tightly in yours.

The street the shop was on was fairly quiet as far as London went, tucked away from the usual hustle and bustle. You wouldn't have made this little display otherwise.

“Oh god, what in the world are you up to now?” Steven asked somewhat nervously, but with a grin as he shut his eyes. He trusted you.

You couldn’t help but to laugh a little at his reaction.

“I promise you’ll like it,” you assured him, leading him carefully around a corner where the bookshop was nestled between some other buildings.

If you hadn’t seen the little sign poking out the other day, you surely wouldn’t have known this place even existed.

You stepped backwards onto the little step by the door to the shop, pushing open the door with one hand while holding Steven’s hand with the other.

The bell above the door chimed, and he looked towards the sound with his eyes still closed tightly.

“Where are you taking me?” He asked with a sweet chuckle, squeezing your hand tighter.

“Careful, there’s a little step here,” you warned him, watching intently as he slowly moved one foot to find the step, then the other.

As you led him into the building, you watched as he started smiling that beautiful smile of his.

That’s when you knew the gig was up.

“I know this smell,” he confirmed your suspicions, making you crack an equally large smile.

“Alright alright, open your eyes,” you said through little bouts of laughter, taking in the absolute look of awe that crossed his face as he did so.

“Oh wow,” his eyes lit up and he looked at the rows upon rows of tall shelves, stocked full of all sorts of books, old and new. “This is amazing! How did you find this place?”

“All it took was getting on the wrong bus,” you explained, unable to stop smiling and you watched his eyes dart around excitedly. “Figured it would make a good date. And they have coffee!”

You made it to the history section of the surprisingly large shop; it had looked smaller from the outside.

You continued looking down the aisles until you finally found Steven as he was flipping through a rather large book, completely unaware of you walking up behind him.

“Steven, coffee,” your voice pulled his focus away from the book he was holding, and he spun around to face you quickly.

A look of guilt immediately overtook his features, but he relaxed once he saw you smiling and shaking your head.

“I recall leaving you in the poetry section,” you teased as you handed him his coffee once he closed the book he was looking at, putting it carefully in the basket with the other ones.

“Yeah, I was there. Then something happened,” he matched your joking tone, taking a sip of his coffee. “It was the craziest thing. I saw someone walk by with a book about the Roman Empire, and then I was over here somehow.”

“Good thing you’re cute,” you continued to mess with him a bit, just to hear his quiet little laughs.

You bit your lip to stifle your laughter, letting out a little gasp of surprise as Steven suddenly pressed his lips to yours. Just a quick little peck.

“I love you so much,” he whispered so sweetly, warmth blossoming in your chest.

“I love you too, Steven,” you whispered back, momentarily forgetting about the world around you. “Let’s keep looking around, shall we?”

You went to pick up the basket from the floor with your free hand, finding it quite a bit heavier than you remember leaving it.

Steven grabbed it with his free hand as well to help you carry it, letting it swing between the two of you.

You’d have to come here more often.

[clarkeyhill]

Sweet Surprise | Arthur Hill

Fluff (mention of sickness)

Summary: Arthur was on tour, he was debuting in London tonight for his last show and you were due to make an appearance, however the past few days you been unwell, sickness, fatigue etc. your friends suggest taking a pregnancy test to be safe, low and behold it was positive. You decide to announce it to Arthur at his concert.

It was the day of the concert, Arthur was back home tonight after the gig which made you happy. Being without him was a struggle, not to mention the fact you'd been poorly most of the week which made you want him more. You swing your legs over your bed, a feeling of nausea rains over you as you take a minute to let your stomach settle

"Not again" you mutter as you shuffle over to the bathroom, rubbing your eyes as you wash your face with water. Your eye-bags drooped from the lack of sleep you were having, a mixture of melancholy nights and disturbed nights causing them. You FaceTime your friend Molly, she was coming tonight but you need advise on wether or not you should go with the way you're feeling.

You;"Hey Mol, I have a question"

M: "Go for it"

You: "I've been feeling pretty sick for a few days now and I'm not sure if I should go or not, I don't feel crappy throughout the day it's just the mornings and nights"

M: "have you taken a test?"

You: "no? I don't think I'd be pre- oh no"

Your mouth drops as you realise, you'd not had a period in over a month and with Arthur's schedule and the stress, you put it down to hormone imbalance.

M: "right, stay where you are give me 30 minutes coming over"

She says ending the phone, so many thoughts run through your head, what if he doesn't want a baby? what if he leaves? What if he hates me for it? WHAT IF?

You pace up and down the kitchen, waiting for Molly to arrive when you hear a knock on the door. She makes her way inside as she hands you two tests, she looks at you with reassurance

"Take these, I'll wait here" she says softly

You nod as you take them into the bathroom, opening the packaging you twiddle with the for a while, your heart sinking at the thought of Arthur not being ready or happy for this change. You take a deep breath and pee on the sticks. You place them back in the packaging and leave them on the counter. Emerging out the bathroom to Molly

"Okay they're done, just got to wait" you face drips white as you take a seat on the sofa

"What if he doesn't want a baby right now? What would I do?" You say, tears forming

"Hey don't think like that, Arthur's lovely and I know for a fact he wouldn't say that to you. It's all in your head" Molly says rubbing your back, just as your phone rings

"It's Arthur" your face widens

"Answer it but don't say anything just yet" she nods

-

A:"Hey gorgeous, you okay?"

You: "I'm good honey, I'm excited for tonight"

A:"me too, I can't wait to see you"

You: "me neither I've missed you"

You chat for a little while and as you say goodbye, your heart sinks. It was time time check the tests. You walk to the bathroom as Molly follows you, your heart beating rapid as you pick one up in the packet

"I can't look" you say peeling it away from its wrapper

You squint as you open one eye

"OH MY GOD" Molly screeches in excitement

Results: Pregnant 4-6weeks

Your eyes fill with tears as you crumble to the floor

"I'm pregnant" you sob with happiness as Molly hugs you on the floor

"Congratulations, I'm so happy for you my love! Do you want to call Arthur?" She says

You hesitate for a moment, thinking how best to announce that you were expecting your own bundle of joy.

"No, I-i might make a sign and hold it in the crowd? Or is that silly?" You suggest

"Absolutely not, I love that idea. Shall we go grab some things from the shop?" She suggests

"I'll Deliveroo it, I'm in too much shock" you chuckle still clutching the test, you decide to place it back in the packaging as you scroll through your phone.

-

The arts and crafts things arrive and you start making your sign, unsure what to write. An idea comes into your head.

"Omg baby in the disco" your eyes widen "then when everyone crouches for dead in the disco I can hold it up from the balcony" you faces glow

"Omg yes!!" Molly agreed as you squeal in excitement

You couldn't help but press your hand on your tummy, although there was no bump, the feeling of growing a little Arthur inside of you made you beam.

You decorate the sign and leave the paint to dry on it, you both head to your bedroom to get ready. You opt for a comfy "hey Arthur" tee from his new merch with a pair of leggings. Not over doing it you apply light makeup as you straighten your hair.

You text Arthur to let him know you'd meet him before the show, trying your hardest to keep it a secret whilst you see him

You: "See you soon baby, I can't wait to hug you"

A: "you don't know how much I can't wait to kiss you"

You: "love you x"

A: "love you more gorgeous x"

-

You head in the Uber to the electric ballroom, Molly keeps the sign folded in her bag incase Arthur saw anything, you make your way backstage to see him before he heads on, his face lights up when he sees you as you shuffle over to him, still feeling a little queasy.

He hugs you tight, you couldn't help but feel a slight pain

"oooo Arthur I've missed you but not too tight" you say wincing a little

"Sorry baby, are you still feeling unwell?" He asks

You nod "a little but not as much as earlier" you smile as he brushes a thumb over your cheek

"You look incredible" he smiles placing a kiss on your lips

"You're not so bad yourself mr hill" you grin kidding him back

He heads out to do sound check and m&g, whilst he's gone you decide to tell his manager the secret, her jaw drops "oh my god congrats!" She squeals as she hugs you, she nods and you discuss the best way to hold it so he'd see it. She decides to out you in a booth next to the stage with your friend. So he'd see you in the corner of his eye. He finishes soundcheck and his m&g and heads back to you

"Good luck stink, I love you" you kiss him on the lips

"Thankyou baby, see you afterwards" he says kissing you back

You make your way to the booth as you stomach turns, you clench it slightly

"You okay?" Molly turns to you concerned

"Yeah just aches a little" you say taking a seat

The gig is well under way, Miriam shoots you a look to say dead in the disco was on it way, Molly hands you the sign as you brush it to the side

"The disco seems to be too loud, the police have been called for a noise disturbance so I'm going to need you all the crouch and hide from the okay?" Arthur announces chuckling, the pit in your stomach forms as your nerves kick in.

All the fans crouch and it was your time, Miriam throws you a thumbs up. You hold the sign up just as the choir is begins again, a spotlight turns towards you as Arthur's gaze directs its self to you

"Baby Arthur in the disco" you sign read as his eyes widen, he stops the song mid way as the fans direct their attention to you

"Are you serious?" He asks via the mic as everyone squeals

"Yes!! I'm pregnant!" You shout over the crowd as everyone cheers, your eyes form tears

" I LOVE YOU" he shouts blowing you a kiss as he remains calm, finishing his song.

-

The gig finishes and you make your way backstage awaiting Arthur, just then you see a figure run backstage "where is she?" He says excitingly "I'm in here!" You shout as he rushes in

"I'm gonna be a dad!" He screeches picking you up

"Yes baby, you're gonna be a dad" you smile looking at him with adoration

"I loved the way you put my song into play too, you really are special" he says kissing your forehead

"How far along are you?" He asks placing you down

"4-6 weeks" you smile, showing him the test

He places his hand on your belly with a soft grip, a smile grows wide on his face "fuck I'm so happy" his tone giddy as you chuckle at him

"Me too baby, I'm so glad you're happy about it" you say

"You didn't think I would be?" His eyes falter

"I just didn't know if it was too soon with you touring and just fully getting the grips of everything, your demand is growing and I didn't want to stop you" you say with a lower tone

He places a finger under your chin "there is nothing more I'd want than to bring another life into this world with you, I will always choose you in every lifetime" he says with a soft smile

Tears once again form at his words "I love you so much Arthur" you say digging your head into his chest

"I love you so much more" he rests his head on yours as you take a moment to hold eachother

-

🫶🏻 part 2?

[prettyyoungandbored]

Crushes [’You and I’ Side Story]

Pairing: Douglas Booth!Nikki Sixx x Female Reader

Author’s Note: Takes place before the events of “You and I.” I was driving through Hollywood and saw a cute couple that reminded me of these two. So thank you, random strangers.

Nikki exhaled as he closed the door behind him. He was relieved to be home after a somewhat mediocre gig.

London was slowly but surely losing its edge. He could feel it and mentally, he was preparing himself for the eventual breakup.

He made his way into the bedroom, setting down his bass. His head turned to see Y/N curled up in bed, hugging his pillow. He smiled, throwing off his shirt.

He knew she felt bad that she couldn’t make it to the show. She worked a double at the diner for the second time that week, exhausting her. He told her there would be other shows. He wasn’t so sure now, but either way her rest was more important.

His pants hit the floor and he kicked it away. He lifted the blanket and crawled under the covers. He threw an arm around her waist, moving his body closer to hers.

Just as he was about to close his eyes, he heard whimpering.

Her whimpering.

He opened his eyes, hoping she was having a sexual dream. But then he noticed the scrunching in her face and realized he needed to step in. He leaned up and gently shook her.

“Babe, babe, babe,” he coaxed her.

Her eyes shot open as she let out a sharp gasp. Her hand was on her chest and he moved closer to her, putting his hand on hers.

“Hey, it’s ok,” he soothed her. “Babe, look at me,”

She turned her head to him as he pulled her into his arms.

“You’re ok,” he assured her, kissing her forehead. “You’re safe.”

She let out a final sigh. “Fuck.”

“Bad dream?”

“That’s putting it lightly. One of the scariest dreams I’ve had in a long time.”

She leaned back onto the pillow, the palm of her hand rubbing her eyes as if that would take away the memories of her dream.

“I’m sorry, sweetheart,” he murmured, his fingers carding through her hair. “It’s over and you’re safe. I promise.”

She looked over at him, flashing a small but grateful smile. She moved her body to him, snuggling her face into his chest and letting the smell of sweat, cigarettes, and Jack Daniel’s soothe her.

He smirked. “I can think of one way to get your mind off it.”

He leaned his head down to see her smirking back at him. “Nice try, Sixx.”

He chuckled as he kissed the top of her head again. “Worth trying.”

She hummed in agreement. If she had woken up on her own without a nightmare, maybe.

“How was your gig?” she asked.

“Eh, it was a gig,” he replied with a shrug. “We were good. The band before us fucking sucked though. They were a bunch of KISS wannabes which made it worse.”

“You don’t like KISS?”

“I thought they were cool when I was a kid, but they didn’t stick with me like other bands did.” He glanced down at her. “What about you?”

“I had a big KISS phase.”

He paused. “That…somehow does not surprise me. Did Gene Simmons’ tongue do it for you?”

“No, but Paul Stanley did.”

He furrowed his eyebrows. “Really?”

She looked up at him. “You judging me, Sixx?”

“A little, yeah,” he snorted. “I wouldn’t have taken you to as a lead singer kind of girl.”

“I’m not,” she insisted. “I actually find other musicians who play other instruments in other bands attractive.”

A pang of jealousy hit Nikki, but he wasn’t going to show it. Instead, he smirked. “Oh yeah? Name ‘em.”

She propped up on her elbow, her eyes meeting his. “Eddie Van Halen, guitarist. You should know that considering I told you that I lost my virginity to a Van Halen song.”

Nikki made a face. “Yeah, I sorta pushed that out of my mind because I don’t like hearing there were others before me.”

“There was only one, Mr. Possessive,” she reminded him, poking his nose.

“Yeah, yeah. Ok, Van Halen is fine. Who else is there? You’re forgetting a big one.”

“I am?” she questioned. Then she snapped her fingers. “Oh yeah!”

“Yeah,” he nodded.

“Drummer!”

Nikki’s face fell. “That’s not-.”

“Roger Taylor from Queen.”

He sighed, shaking his head. “So those are your choices? Paul Stanley, Eddie Van Halen, and Roger Taylor? You sure you’re not missing any other key band members you find attractive?”

She thought for a moment. “Ok so there is a bassist.”

“But it’s not Gene Simmons.”

“It’s not Gene Simmons.”

“Ok,” he nodded. “Tell me more.”

She rest her chin on his chest, sighing dramatically. “I don’t know if you know him.”

He knew damn well where this going, but he was down to play her game. “I might.”

“He plays for this band London.”

He chuckled. “London…yeah, I’ve heard of ‘em.”

“So he’s super sexy.”

“Super sexy? Sexier than the men on your list?”

“Definitely.”

“Ooh. Ok, go on.”

“He plays like a god. Like his talent is incredible.” She snuggled close. “He has impeccable stage presence.”

“Impeccable?! That’s some high praise, princess. What else?”

“He’s got black hair. Gorgeous eyes.”

He hummed. “Gorgeous you say?”

She nodded. “He’s also really good at comforting a girl after a nightmare.”

His jaw dropped, slapping his hand on his chest. “It’s me?”

“Surprise!” she giggled.

He leaned his head back. “Wow! I don’t know what to say. I didn’t see it coming.”

She laughed, burying her face in his chest.

“Hey Y/N?”

“Yeah?”

“Out of all those crushes, which one do you like the most?”

She snorted and lifted her head up. “Who do you think?”

He shrugged. “You tell me.”

“Do you need me to stroke your ego some more?”

“So it is me?!”

She rolled her eyes as he threw his head back laughing. “You’re lucky I think you’re cute.”

“Obviously you do since you have a crush on me,” he reminded her. “So embarrassing.”

She pulled her lips back. “We live together, dumbass.”

He kissed her nose. “For what it’s worth, I have a crush on you too.”

She hummed. “And how many other crushes do you have?”

“Just one. You. You’re it for me.”

“Until you become a big rockstar and then have groupies.”

“Nope. I’m always gonna have a crush on you.”

She snorted. “Yeah, ok then.”

His smile quickly fell flat as his dark eyes softened. “Hey, I’m serious. I don’t want anyone else. Just you.”

The sincerity in his tone lifted warmed Y/N’s heart. She always knew he was serious about her, but every now and again, she needed a reminder that he loved her even if he couldn’t outright say it.

It was an issue she knew she would have to work on.

“And Y/N? I’m never going to let anything happen to you. I promise you’re safe with me.”

She pecked his lips before snuggling back into his chest. “I know. And I know you know you’re safe with me.”

His hand rubbed her back soothingly. “I know.”

[insomniac4000]

Change of Heart Part 2

Second and final part, enjoy!

"So what are we doing for my birthday boys?" Chris asked excitedly. George and the pair of Arthur's looked at each other with knowing glances, since this was technically Arthur Hill's idea it was decided that he was going to be the one to break the news but he wanted to do it slowly.

"Well I'm actually playing a show in London that night and I thought you know... since we're flatmates that you guys could come, I've got VIP passes for you all. Maybe we could go out for a few drinks after?" Arthur said, his voice going a little high at the end through fear of what was about to come out of his mouth next.

"Sounds great, what's the catch?" Chris joked, oh he had no idea.

"Y/N's going to be there too, it's her show..." Arthur replied and flinched as he anticipated Chris was going to hit him. Instead the curly haired boy shook his head vigorously. These were meant to be his friends, how could they plan something they knew he would hate?

"That's fine. I'll see what Theo or Will or someone is doing instead." Chris was trying to stay as calm as possible but his words did not match his body language in the slightest. It was George who was the one to try and salvage the conversation, picking up on the panicked look from Arthur.

"Look Chris, this is at the Brixton Academy, it's Arthur's biggest gig to date. This is not about choosing sides in a stupid argument it's about supporting our flatmate and our friend," the younger tiktoker reasoned. He knew Chris wasn't an arsehole even if we was acting like one and Chris would want to be there to support Arthur if he could be.

"Fine. But I'm only there for Arthur," Chris sighed admitting defeat.

Chris was now on board, the boys thought it best to not specifically mention that to you that Chris was going to be at the show. Since you walked out of that pub garden you have had nothing to do with him and the guys had told you that "we" were going to be there so you assumed that it didn't include the little hobbit. So when you saw his scowling face in Arthur's dressing room it did come as massive shock.

"Technically we didn't lie to you," Arthur Hill said to you in a desperate attempt to defend himself.

"Whatever, I have no time to argue. I have a show to do." You stated simply before walking out of the room. Everyone was surprised you didn't try to engage in some sort of an argument but no one was as surprised as Chris. The bottom line was you were a professional and you had a lot of people you didn't want to let down. Even though you liked a drink you never drunk before a show, your voice sounded better that way, a fact that had also shocked Chris when Arthur told the group after George suggested going over to you with a drink as a peace offering after you had left the dressing room.

Arthur was on first and you went to see his set, like you did with everybody you played shows with in order to show support and also because you just loved music, you were also due to sing "Iced Coffee" with him which was closer to the end of the set. While watching him you clutched your bottle of water as you stood just to the right of George, Arthur was to his left and Chris was at the end. The curly haired boy kept glancing at you, you had changed into your stage outfit, a leather body suit with long but sheer sleeves and a sheer train at the back which just about touched the floor and a pair of black knee high boots. He had to admit to himself you looked really good and he wanted to kick himself for it, who was he kidding you always looked really good.

"Sure I can't tempt you?" George asked as he offered up his drink to you. You politely shook your head and turned to him.

"The minute I get off stage I promise,"

"That's quite honourable you know. It's weird how Youtube puts you in this bizzare bubble where it's not only acceptable to drink on the job it's encouraged. If I did that as a barrister I'd have been struck off," Arthur explained.

"That's true, I probably could but I think my voice just sounds a lot better sober," you explained. Chris's eyebrows raised a little, he didn't realise how hard you worked at your job and just hoe seriously you took your music career. He had assumed music was just something you did because you felt it was cool or popular and you just wanted something else to do as opposed to Youtube but he was slowly starting to realise just how wrong he was.

Soon it was time to join Arthur on stage as the moustached man introduced you.

"Now I would like to invite a very special person on stage that I knoe you're all waiting to see. Please welcome the insanely talented Y/N!!"

Chris couldn't help you watch you intensely, your smile wide as you gave a wave to the crowd. It was obvious to anyone that you absolutely loved performing to people. While he had heard your songs in the background when the other boys played it but he hadn't really paid attention before. Arthur started the song then you sang.

"Oh, we go up to go down Kiss, chase round and round Your head in my clouds, so high We're all over the place My hands on your waist Your changing the pace just like"

Chris didn't realise before how beautiful your voice was. It had a sad almost haunting tone to it which matched the lyrics to the song perfectly.

"I hate to be the one to clear the air This ain't no casual affair Don't mean the feeling wasn't there Just means you kinda made me scared"

You couldn't help but glance Chris's way a little when you sang the last line, you were always wondering what you did to make him hate you so much. The first time you appeared on his channel you made a couple of jokes but you were only trying to fit in. As you continued singing you felt the lyrics flow through you as you felt them.

I can't keep my cool When I'm around you I can't keep my cool When I'm around you

Chris knew that he had main character syndrome a lot of the time but he somehow knew that you were singing to him.

To his surprise Chris stayed for your entire set and watched as you effortlessly moved across the stage, singing your heart out.

After the show you came off stage' hot, sweaty and tired but that was just how it always was and you loved it.

"Wow you are really good," Chris commented as you walked past, a huge smile on your face. Everyone stopped for a moment and let Chris's comment, no Chris's compliment sink in.

"Thank you," you replied giving Chris a small smile before downing the bottle of water which was always left at the side for you after a show. Since he was showing you a little bit of kindness you thought he deserved a little back.

"Right, let's celebrate shall we?" You asked to a chorus of cheers as everyone went to get ready for the night out ahead. You had changed into something a little bit more comfortable, a black skirt and a white body suit with ruched sleeves and some white platformed trainers. Chris watched you as you spoke to people, some from the show, others you had worked with previously and he was impressed you remembered people's names, the lighting, the sound guy. Had he gotten you wrong all along? As the night went on and the drinks flowed everyone couldn't help but notice you and Chris had not bickered once, he had even just offered to get you a drink which you accepted.

"Thanks," you smiled as you took the glass of rum and coke from his hands.

"You're welcome, maybe it could be a peace offering?" Chris suggested. You looked at him and studied his face, he was quite cute when he wasn't pouting, well actually you thought he was very attractive when he was pouting. He had wonderful blue green eyes that changed colour depending on the light, sure you were a smidge taller than him in those shoes but it didn't bother you, he didn't give off short man energy instead he embraced it which you quite liked.

"Sure thing. I dunno what I ever did to make you despise me so much but I'm glad we're getting along now, only if it is for tonight," you slurred in his ear before taking a sip of your drink. Chris frowned and looked down at his feet, he was now feeling incredibly guilty in that moment.

"I never said I despised you," he slurred back, leaning on the bar for support.

"Sure acted like it, look I don't want to have another argument with you. Thanks for the drink and thank you for coming to my show," you replied before you went to walk off to talk to someone else. A pull on your hand stopped you, you looked back to see Chris holding on tightly with a look on his face you hadn't seen before, determination?

"I meant what I said. I think you're really talented tonight was great," he complimented and you nodded as you felt the blush rise in your cheeks, luckily the bar was hot so you could pass off any redness to that.

"Thank you. You're the only person I know who can make football interesting," you replied with a slight giggle, giggle? What were you a school girl? Chris nodded slowly as he licked his lips a little, God that was hot you thought.

"You're really beautiful as well. Maybe we could start again?" Chris asked letting go of your hand but placing it out in front of you as if he were asking you to shake it.

"Hi I'm Chris," he said confidently as he gave you a cheeky wink. Your face broke out into a big smile as you shook his hand.

"Hi I'm Y/N," you giggled out, biting on your bottom lip as he lifted your hand up and kissed it gently. Both of you looked so intently in the other person's eyes you both failed to notice the jubilant cheers going on in the background from Chris's flatmates.

[riaaanna]

It's well past a "recap" moment but Queen I (2024) was an absolutely delightful surprise with some memorable gems 🥹❤️ so I wanted to make a gratuitous, shameless list of Top 5 from my own archive, just as a memory of how lucky we are to still be able to get so much new content, from a 50+ year old band, in the year of our lord 2024.

#5) Brian and Roger on a press conference for a Queen release.

Sounds like nothing at first but when was the last time this happened that wasn't the 2018 movie or anything QAL related? Not even the Miracle boxset got this treatment. Feels like the start of a new era, the flip of a new page. If they so decide to take tours a lot slower or eventually retiring completely, I would be #1 to say I don't mind them doing it in favour of digging into the old vault, or even possibly releasing new material. (That video was the most crumbs I could collect ANYWHERE btw, and even then it was by request and buried af 💀 amazed at how scarce any video was from that event...)

#4) The boxset of unseen lyrics handwritten by baby Queen.

As if I haven't been vocal enough, the entire boxset is absolutely precious. But my personal love is for these new handwritten materials (which... may have been more in quantity than the unseen photos maybe? I didn't keep exact count but it certainly feels that way). Freddie's WIP lyrics, the band's early gig deals, Roger's diary entries and Brian's personal gig reports (!!). Underrated and hope people appreciate more of these in the future, so the band can see that there's demand for it and release more of them!

#3) My Fairy King: raw acapella and piano (without using AI splitter!)

For legal reasons please note that I've never had an iPhone ever 💀✌️ Please listen to these amazing vocals AND piano (the latter used to be buried in the original mix, listen to the 2024 version during the instrumentals near the end, they definitely had newfound appreciation to the piano and pulled it up to be significantly audible!!) . This, and the outtake in the boxset, is further glorious evidence of their musical complexity sooo early on in their career ❤️.

#2) John Harris' official reappearance to the public Queen fandom.

What a moment to behold, this one. John Harris got in touch with the fanclub and was supposed to appear in 2023 (when I was there!) but it finally happened last year and I don't think words could do justice how historical this one was! There was a preamble to this where he was a guest for a Japanese tour group visiting Ridge Farm, which was SO difficult for me to get anything from, for literal MONTHS (bit of language barrier, bit of gatekeeping, lots of both lmao). So it was only until October at the convention that we finally got to see him and his wholeass Comic Sans Powerpoint.

From this point I will redirect you all to @justlike-awoman's post of the recap of his full conversation above (I'm sorry to keep tagging you on my shit like this El ily ❤️) from the fanclub magazine!! Read through!!

Bonus: among all the posts, this is the least where I had a hand in that actually produces a result, BUT to justify this having a place in my list of contributions, here is a stupid diagram I drew for El for where to get a seat at the convention during his session, in case of a Hunger Games scenario 😂 that's as far as I can claim lmaooo

#1) (re)Discovering baby John Deacon!

Gosh, I think that whole post is self-explanatory. Obviously, the first-hand credits aren't mine (which applies to all the posts I link here btw). But I will take that I Thanos-hand-memed this to fruition lmao. From randomly finding Jim Jenkins' post and him guessing incorrectly and me being gatekept by a website admin and finally getting confirmation from Brian himself lmao what a ride and a highlight of the year.

So thank you Queen in 2024, it's been a blast! Excited for 2025 where we'll hopefully get in time: Queen II (2025), Live at Brixton Academy (Gold Series) and... other Queen official and fan events to come! 🤞💖

[mitamicah]

.

[mandalaysworld]

my angel.

writers note: hey yall, this is my first of many archived pieces ;))) i’m super excited to be posting. i’ve been nervous though, idk why! i kinda wrote this into a small series to lmk if you guys want it. please enjoy ;)))

pairing: momo yaoyorazu x black coded reader

content: black reader, lesbian coded (bisexual if you squint), fingering, strap on use, oral sex, intention was to use lower case writing , etccccc…

r&bsingery/n thinks about her modelgf!momo yaoyorazu all the time when she’s on tour. it’s hard to see her with all your shows meshing with her gigs. you guys call, text, email, facetime whenever you can due to your demanding schedules. you missed everything about her. it so happens you have a show in london and she has a gig in london, you guys took that opportunity. you was sitting on the couch in your luxury hotel on the top floor. you were busy tweaking your hook for your new upcoming song until you heard a knock on the door. you got up and ran to the door, hoping it was who you hoped it was. you looked through the peephole and smiled. you opened the door to your beautiful, raven haired beauty. you picked her up and swung her around. she giggled and grabbed your face.

“hey baby. i missed you so much mommy.”

she said after putting kisses all over my face and neck. you would smile and pull away, coming together again with a kiss.

“i missed you too angel. come on in.”

you said, letting her come in. she takes off her coat as she kicks off her boots. you take her coat and lay it across the chair you had at the bar.

“baby, this view is beautiful. i’ll never get tired of london.”

she said looking at the skyline in the windows. i giggled at her astonishment.

“im surprised you haven’t just yet. you been here so many times.” i said approaching her from the back. i snaked my arm around her waist and inhaled her scent. her signature floral notes hits my nose.

“yeah i know. it’s like every time feels like the first time you know?”

she rambles on as i place light kisses on her neck.

“yes i know baby.”

she sighs and cranes her neck to look at me.

“baby are you even listening to me?” she asked.

i nod my head.

“yes mama i was. i just wanna make up for lost time, you know?” i said as i turned her around.

she smiled as i leaned in for a kiss. her lips were so soft, instantly feeling butterflies in my stomach. your hands slides down her back and grips her round ass. you tap her ass and in instinct, she makes a small jump in the air. you carried her to your bedroom you’ll be residing in for the next a couple of days. you climb on top of her marveling at her doe like eyes.

“it’s like every time i see you, you get more beautiful angel.” i gushed as i unbuttoned her pants. she blushes and looks away.

“how do you still manage to make me blush and we been together for almost a year now?” she asked as i pulled her panties and jeans off, being impatient as usual. i grabbed her right leg and started to kiss her ankle.

“i don’t know. maybe because i’m like that for real.” i said i rubbed her other leg. i leaned forward and started to make out with her again. momo finds the end of your tshirt and pull it over your head revealing nothing but your perk nipples. she grazes her finger tips over your erect nipples and gave them a small pinch. you moaned, taking the opportunity to slip her tongue in. you two started to breathe more heavily.

“baby i need you—right now.” momo demanded in the kiss. i chuckled.

“when did you get so bossy angel?” she sat up on her elbows.

“ever since my girlfriend is being a slow—oh!” i winked from below her. she watched as i devoured her. she throws her head back with a moan.

“fuck y/n…i missed you so much baby. please….dont stop.” she moaned out as she gripped my afro. i reached up and rubbed on her slim stomach. she unbuttoned that single button she had to secure her plump breasts. i noticed she had them pierced.

“oh? you got your nipples pierced angel?” i asked as i replaced my tongue with my fingers.

“fuck, yes mommy surprise. pleeeeeeease….dont stop mommy. keep going!” she moaned out with her eyes shut tightly. i smirked as i watched her juices trickled down the palm of my hand.

“yes baby because you asked so nicely.” me listening to all her wet, squelching noises is music to my ears. literally. seconds later, momo cries in pleasure as she squirts everywhere from the bed, upper arm and little on my face.

“mm yeah angel. this is what i’m talking about! i miss this fucking pussy.” i praised on with a giggle.

kept pumping my fingers in and out until she was no more. she breathes heavily as i stuck my fingers in my mouth. she watched me seductively. “still sweet angel.” she pushed me over on the the mattress and hovered over me. “it’s my turn.”

*:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ *:･ﾟ✧*:･ﾟ *

fuuuuuuck me baby! you’re fucking the shit out of me mommy!” momo moaned out.

i had her bent over on all fours, pounding that pretty pussy. i bit my bottom lip as i watched her round ass bounce off my pelvis. watching her pussy grip my blue strap was something i missed seeing.

“yeah mommy treating this pussy real good huh? you love this dick baby?” i asked before i wrapped her thick black hair round my hand. i roughly pulled it back and made her look at me.

“look at me as i treat this little pretty hm?” she looked at her with her mascara streaked eyes. she was biting on her bottom lip until she let a small pleasured whine. placed my other hand on the small of her back to deepen the arch. all you could hear was her wet pussy talking to me. i smacked her already red ass twice.

fuckkk…flip over. now.” i demanded momo. she did as she was told and made myself at home in between her legs again. i leaned down and started to make out with her passionately. she moaned as i rubbed the blue mushroom tip on her clit.

“stop being a tease. give it to me.” she whined. i smirked as i impaled her through the mattress. she gasped. i started to kiss all over her face. “i did what you asked of me,” i whispered.

“now…are you going to continue whining or take it like mommy’s good girl?”

end note: so what did you guys think? i mean, ik i need to work on it a little more when it comes to my diction and stuff but still idk. also too, the r&bsingery/n is based off kehlani. so i hope i nailed it for now! thank you <333

[evermoredeluxe]

https://x.com/NME/status/1824394644601573613?t=yT1QRytgdo5lzTJHmIU3kg&s=19

not at all surprised!

[lovexjoe]

can you write a vacation sex for jacob please❤️

Vacation Love 

Jacob and Y/N was captivated by the scenery of Cancun from their ocean view dinner. He missed her so much while filming it was the longest they been away from each other since they started dating back in 2018. Y/N was getting more gigs from clothing and makeup companies so she’s been filming her own content almost everyday. After he wrapped up filming, he laid in his hotel room, flipping through his photos of them. Two months without each other was brutal. He missed her touch, her scent and mostly her love. He booked a surprise trip without even asking her, hoping she doesn’t have any work related projects for the next week. 

He sends her a text, knowing it’s 1am in London right now. 

“You and Me? Cancun Mexico! 👩‍❤️‍👨Your plane is booked, better start packing ✈️ is at 10am. Can’t wait to see you, my love 😍 ” 

That risky text was the best one he has sent yet. All her projects weren’t due for the next 2 weeks so he had all of her attention. She hopped on the flight now here they were. After a long day of ATVing, ziplining and swimming in cenotes. They were 4 tequila shots in and couldn’t keep their hands off each other. The waitor cleared out their plates and they continue to enjoy their drinks. 

“I’ve missed you so much, I feel like I’ve said it a million times since you landed. But it’s true.” He intertwines your fingers, just the slightest touch was giving you fanny flutters. You missed him THAT bad. You started to rub your leg against his and he clears his throat. 

“Babe, don’t you still want dessert?” He tries to maintain a straight face, but he biting back a big smile. 

“I do, but I rather have you instead…” You give him the most seductive look he couldn’t think of anything else except 

“Waitor! Check please.” 

He scans the hotel card and he waste no time pulling you into the room. He lips meeting yours, the both of you hungry for each other. Two months was too long. 60 days without each other’s touch, you could say you two were desperate and that’s totally fine. That’s what comes with being in love. His beard tickles your neck as he bites and sucks on your sweet spot. 

He sits on the bed, pulling you into his lap and facing you towards the floor length mirror. Pulling your dress up, revealing you had no panties on the entire time and he smirks. 

“Fuck you look so good baby. I missed this pussy.” He gives your pussy a slap causing you to gasp. His palm hitting your clit was a different sensation. The liquor consumed at dinner was taking over and the yearning for each other was too. He spreads your legs out wider using his legs as you lay your head against his chest. His slowly starts to play with your clit, then slipping two fingers inside earning a moan. 

“Watch yourself baby. You are a sight to see” He already has you dazed, you open your eyes and oh my was he right. It was a sight to see. He continues to work his fingers inside you, bringing you to your first orgasm. Nothing compares to his touch, not your fingers or toys. You removed your dress fully before straddling him. 

“I think it’s time you watch closely, cause you’re a sight to see my love” This is the first time you’ve left Jacob speechless. You slipped his pants and boxers off: ripping his button up open. Both of you laughing as you hear the buttons hit the floor. You positioned yourself and slipped him in, earning a moan from him. 

“Fuckkk Y/N” you looked behind at the mirror as he spreads your cheeks taking in the glory of your tightness around him. 

“Baaabyyy you’re stretching me out” You hold onto him and you start to bounce faster. 

“I missed you baby... uhhh fuck just like that!” he gives your ass a slap as he watches you through the mirror. He doesn’t think he can hold on for long. He holds you close as he fills you up with his release. Both of you sweaty and panting against each others skin. 

“Round 2?” Y/N says causing Jacob to laugh. 

Taglist: @yeahnohoneybye @cardi-bre91 @onlysarang @romanreignsluver1 @minwn

@armandosbabymama @dyttomori @bbyplutosblog @vergilnelosparda @believeinthefireflies95 @cardi-bre91 @hopetookourvibe

[louisupdates]

Louis Tomlinson has surprised fans by announcing a special show in the UK this week. The singer took to social media over the weekend to announce the exciting news, simply sharing the poster artwork captioned: 'ELECTRIC BRIXTON. LONDON. 6TH MARCH 2025. LINK IN BIO.'

The singer confirmed he would be performing at Electric Brixton in London this Thursday 6th March, and tickets will be on sale from Tuesday 4th March from midday.

Since announcing the special gig, fans have been leaving excited messages. One wrote: 'omggggg, so excited!!! (there’s no way i can fly to the uk on such a short notice😭)' (sic), while another commented: 'HIII LOUIS WE HAVE MISSED YOU WELCOME BACK'. (sic)

This latest announcement comes as a surprise to many fans, who haven't seen Louis perform in the UK for some time. The singer was last on tour in the UK in November 2023 as part of his 'Faith In The Future Tour', supporting his album of the same name. [Edit. This is untrue. Louis played the Victorious Festival in Portsmouth, UK on 23 August 2024.]

He was also recently spotted supporting former One Direction member Zayn Malik, while he was on tour in Los Angeles. Although he didn't point out where he was, Zayn told his fans that Louis was in the audience, sparking rumours of a One Direction reunion as a tribute to Liam Payne, who passed away in October 2024.

Despite the rumoured reunion not taking place at The BRIT Awards, the show paid an emotional tribute to the late singer.

When is Louis Tomlinson performing in the UK?

Louis will be performing a special one-off gig on Thursday 6th March.

Where will he be performing?

He will be taking to the stage at Electric Brixton in London.

When are tickets on sale?

Tickets will be on sale from midday on Tuesday 4th March.

Who will be supporting Louis Tomlinson?

It has been announced that Dirty Blonde will be supporting Louis.